The State Trading Organisation (STO) has introduced special pricing for lemons during Ramadan, offering them at significantly lower rates compared to current market prices.

Individual lemons are being sold at MVR 40 per kilogram, while boxed lemons (5 kilogrammes) are priced at MVR 145. This is a notable reduction from market rates, which currently range between MVR 75 to MVR 85 per kilogramme.

In addition to lemons, STO is offering onions at MVR 15 per kilogram and coconuts at MVR 5 each, in response to recent market price increases. These prices represent substantial savings, particularly for coconuts, which are being sold at up to 80 per cent below market rates of MVR 10 to MVR 25 each.

This initiative is part of the organisation's broader efforts to stabilise the prices of essential food items during the holy month. STO has organised its import strategy for Ramadan into four categories: staple foods (onions, eggs, potatoes, coconuts, dates), fresh produce (vegetables and fruits), ready-to-eat foods, and cooking ingredients.

The Government has identified 183 essential items, with 54 specifically designated as critical for Ramadan, as part of its policy to address price increases. According to Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed, the Government will take immediate action against vendors found selling these items at inflated prices during Ramadan.

These measures are part of the Government’s broader policy to control price increases of essential goods during Ramadan, following directives issued by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu last year.